Media releases
Sunday, 18 August 2002 - MVT099/2002
AWB Outcome on Iraqi Wheat Exports Positive: Vaile
The successful outcome of the quality dispute between AWB Ltd and
the Iraqi Grains Board is positive news for Australian wheat farmers
and their families, Trade Minister Mark Vaile said today.
Mr Vaile said the AWB and the Iraqi Grains Board resolved the quality
dispute following a series of meetings in Iraq in recent days.
"The outcome achieved in the quality dispute with Iraq has vindicated
the Federal Government's faith in the AWB to successfully manage their
commercial dealings with the Iraqi Grains Board," Mr Vaile said.
"The Australian Government has always recognised the need to ensure
a reliable food supply to the Iraqi people.
"Historically Australia's wheat trade with Iraq has averaged out
at 2 million tonnes per year under the United Nation's Oil for Food
program.
"This latest outcome means Australian wheat farmers will have sold
almost 1.8 million tonnes of quality Australian wheat to Iraq this
year."
Mr Vaile said this outcome is another example of why the Federal
Government is a committed supporter of the single desk for bulk wheat
exports, which gives branding and marketing advantages to Australian
wheat farmers.
"Through the single desk the AWB exports to some 50 countries enabling
them to strategically place Australian wheat around the world.
"The Federal Government is confident the AWB is well equipped to
maximise export revenue for the Australian wheat grower."
Media Contact: Mark Croxford +61 02 6277 7420
Local Date:
Friday, 05-Dec-2008 14:04:15 EST
